Brizard took the helm at the 34,000-student district in Rochester in January 2008.

"In my opinion there is no greater calling than the field of education," Brizard said after Emanuel made his announcement at Kelly High School on Chicago’s South Side. "We must put students first."

Emanuel called Brizard an "experienced educator and proven manager."

"He is not afraid of tough choices," Emanuel said.

Brizard replaces Ron Huberman, who resigned in November after Mayor Richard Daley said he would retire. Huberman said he had no desire to serve another mayor. Huberman’s last day in the $230,000-a-year job was Nov. 29.

Emanuel said he interviewed six or seven candidates for the job. The mayor-elect also announced other top school leadership posts, including chief education officer, chief operating officer and communications chief.

The Chicago Board of Education must approve Brizard’s appointment.

Daley had picked Terry Mazany to serve as interim schools chief. Mazany was on loan to the city from his job as head of the Chicago Community Trust, a grant-making foundation.